Trump’s new visa policy to impact Indian students planning to study, work in US

In a move that could drastically alter the career prospects of Indian students in the United States, President Donald Trump on Friday signed a proclamation imposing a steep annual fee of $100,000 on H1-B visas. The decision, part of the administration’s broader crackdown on immigration, is expected to hit Indian professionals and students the hardest, given their significant presence in American universities and the tech sector.

The H-1B visa remains one of the most sought-after US work permits, providing American companies with access to skilled global talent while giving international professionals the chance to gain work experience in the United States. Every year, thousands of Indian students head to the US, drawn by its world-class education system and the promise of global career opportunities.

"The H-1B programme, a lifeline for innovation that has attracted top talent from around the world, faces unprecedented barriers with this massive



jump from the current USD 2,000-USD 5,000 total fee, which will crush small businesses and startups reliant on diverse talent,” he said.

Currently, the H-1B visa fee ranges from about USD 2,000 to USD 5,000, depending on employer size and other costs. The H-1B visas, which are very popular among Indian tech professionals, are valid for three years and can be renewed for another three years.

Trump's decision will significantly affect Indian technology professionals who are hired by tech companies and others on H-1B visas.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is the second-highest beneficiary with 5,505 approved H-1B visas in 2025, after Amazon (10,044 workers on H-1B visas), according to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Other top beneficiaries include Microsoft (5,189), Meta (5,123), Apple (4,202), Google (4,181), Deloitte (2,353), Infosys (2,004), Wipro (1,523) and Tech Mahindra Americas (951).